● We began by discussing a definition for stigma and the role of stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination in creating barriers to care. These obstacles include self-stigma experienced by patients and stigmatization by healthcare providers, which is often learned and reinforced during clinical training.
● OUD is chronic medical condition just like any other you might see such as diabetes or hypertension. OUD results from genetic and environmental factors and its pathophysiology involves advanced changes in brain neurochemistry.
● Stigmatization of patients with OUD exists throughout the medical community but may disproportionately impact specific patient populations including racial and ethnic minorities, those with chronic hepatitis C or endocarditis, and pregnant or postpartum patients.
● The language you use to describe patients with substance use disorders including OUD matters. Person-first language is critical when working towards eliminating stigma. Avoid terms like “abuser”, “addict”, or “junkie” and remember that while patients may use these terms to describe themselves, healthcare providers must still use neutral, precise, and respectful language. When speaking with or about patients with substance use disorders, use terms like “person who uses drugs”, “drug misuse”, and “patient in recovery”.
● Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are medications approved for the treatment of OUD. These medications are safe, effective, and save lives – and they should be considered as part of individualized treatment plans for patients on their journey to long-term recovery.
● Eliminating stigma towards OUD will improve access to care and save lives. YOU are part of the change! And this change is already happening all around you.
In October 2019, U.S. House Representative Ted Budd introduced a resolution to “recognize addiction as a treatable chronic medical disease… and support efforts to prevent and destigmatize substance use disorders and addiction.”
As you can see, stigma elimination campaigns and efforts are happening all across the country. Now is the time to take control of bias and stigma, and provide the best possible care for patients with OUD. Here are some examples:
A citywide campaign to destigmatize buprenorphine therapy produced by the New York Health Department.
All employees of Boston Medical Center are asked to sign the “BMC Words Matter pledge”.
In many California emergency departments, signs greet patients to encourage conversation and provide support for OUD as a standard of care.
Clicking “next” will take you to the post-survey and allow you to claim Continuing Education credit.
